PRO-INDUSTRY DIAOGUE Conference, with agenda for modernization, competitiveness of Moldova's economy

Entrepreneurs, representatives of public authorities, sectoral associations, and development partners today gathered at the annual conference titled, PRO-INDUSTRY DIALOGUE: Catalyst of Moldova's Industrial Future, organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of Moldova. The participants analyzed developments of the national industry, identifying solutions to enhance the competitiveness of the country's economy.

‘’The event stays an important milestone for the industrial, entrepreneurial and institutional environment of the country. Pro-Industry is more than a conference - it's an ongoing process of collecting real problems faced by industrial companies and identifying solutions with authorities, international partners and professional associations. We want this dialogue to contribute directly to increasing investments, technological modernization and supporting local manufacturers,’’ said CCI President Sergiu Harea.

According to the official, last year, at the beginning of October, with the launch of the event's first edition, over 250 companies from all regions of the country gathered under the same umbrella – the PRO-INDUSTRY Dialogue: Catalyst of Moldova's Industrial Future conference. There were entrepreneurs, officials, experts, all driven by a common wish: to find solutions for a stronger, more modern industry closer to European standards.

‘’From the first discussions, tangible promises took shape: support for modernization, access to national and European funding, opportunities for green technologies, development of dual education and clear steps towards enhancing  competitiveness. For many, it wasn't just a list of intentions, but the beginning of a journey expected for years. And concrete steps were not delayed. In January 2025, a regional state aid scheme began to operate for the processing industry. With an estimated budget of 2 billion lei, support was divided between income tax exemptions and direct grants. The eligibility threshold was set, attracting investments of at least 10 million lei and a minimum own contribution of 25 per cent. About 150 enterprises are expected to benefit from this support. Today, PRO-INDUSTRY DIALOGUE is no longer just a discussion forum, but a mechanism that has started to transform ideas into concrete policies and tangible resources. Progress is visible, but the real test will be the impact on companies, employees, and regions. The story is ongoing and the next chapters will show if Moldova succeeds in building a European, sustainable and competitive industrial future,’’ emphasized Sergiu Harea.

After the success of the first edition, the event returned in 2025 with an ambitious agenda, bringing to the forefront up-to-date subjects for the industrial sector's development, structured into four topic-related panels. They include industrial platforms for growth and modernization — best practices in developing industrial parks and attracting investments; knowledge and innovation-based industrial development — connecting research with regional industries, smart specialization and innovation vouchers; strengthening the industrial workforce — solutions for attracting and retaining human resources, dual education, gender equality and family-friendly policies; sustainable waste management and circular industry — recommendations for sustainability and adapting to EU requirements for emission reductions.

The participants in the session also analyzed the progress of the National Industrial Development Programme, providing a framework for new public policy proposals and support for companies.

In the context, the Entrepreneurship Development Organization (ODA) has become an essential partner for companies, providing them not only with funding, but also a comprehensive support framework for modernization and growth.

Through its grant programmes and non-refundable financing, ODA enables firms to acquire modern equipment, optimize production lines and create higher value-added products. For many enterprises, these grants represented a decisive boost: investments that would otherwise have been impossible become accessible and companies gain the necessary tools to compete on the European market.

‘’Not only direct funding makes a difference. Through the Credit Guarantee Fund, ODA reduces risk for banks and facilitates companies' access to loans needed for expansion or retooling. At the same time, programmes dedicated to energy efficiency help the industry overcome rising energy costs and take concrete steps towards sustainability, preparing for European standards. ODA doesn't stop at financial support. The organization organizes training and mentoring sessions, providing entrepreneurs and managers with tools for modern management, digitalization and innovation. Internationalization programmes allow firms to participate in fairs, build brands, and integrate into European value chains, turning ideas into real exports. Moreover, ODA collaborates with authorities and the private sector to develop industrial clusters and business parks, creating ecosystems where companies can grow together, exchanging best practices, and attracting investments. Thus, ODA is not just a resource provider, but a true catalyst for the transformation of the Moldovan industry. Through financial support, consulting, training and connection to external markets, the organization gives industrial companies the chance to leap from local production to European competitiveness, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of a modern economy,’’ stated Isae Spînu, Head of Operations at ODA.

The today's conference took place under the new 'Pro-Industry' logo and visual identity, which will accompany all promotional and communication materials of the event. The new symbol reflects the CCI's modern vision of the national industry and represents a commitment to the platform's long-term continuity and development.

This activity takes place with the support of the Strong Enterprises and Communities for Moldova project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Swiss Government, implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), as well as the Enhancing Women's Resilience and Excellence through Inclusive and Family-Friendly Employment Opportunities project, funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and implemented by UN Women and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Moldova, in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Moldova.